The big (energy-efficient) chill

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Helping a group of East Village residents save both money and electricity, Borough President Scott Stringer and his 4-month-old son, Max (in baby carriage), distributed 16 energy-efficient refrigerators last month through NYSERDA’s EmPower program. The forward-looking fridges use 20 percent less electricity than typical models, and can save $200 a year. The appliances are the latest addition to the Model Block program, on E. Fourth St. between the Bowery and Second Ave. Part of the B.P.’s Go Green Lower East Side initiative, the yearlong program has focused on a “comprehensive greening” of the block. Volunteers have painted 35,000 square feet of roof space white for energy efficiency, trained building managers and residents on increasing energy efficiency and recycling techniques and distributed compact fluorescent lamp (C.F.L.) light bulbs.